BY A STAFF REPORTERIRVINE, CA- Ektaa Center in cooperation with the City of Irvine, local businesses, and arts & dance schools, lit up the city with its second annual Diwali celebration, ‘Diwali Fest 2015’, on Nov 7 at the City Hall Piazza here.The event was attended by over 1,500 people. The theme centered on promoting a community spirit and...

was celebrated with entertainment, food, vendor and resource booths. The festival kicked off with the lamp lighting ceremony in which Irvine City officials, including two former mayors, City Commissioner, Chief of Police, Ektaa Center Board, Festival Organizing Committee, and other community leaders lit a ‘Diya’. All the attendees participated in the ceremony by placing a candle on beautifully decorated tables. The main stage featured diverse dance and musical performances showcasing various arts and cultures of India. Dance schools that participated included Adaa, Arpana, Mumbai Madness, Nityashetra, Prance and Dance & others. Vivek Arya and Renu Arya rocked the stage with their energetic singing. Food vendors provided North and South Indian fare. Local businesses had booths with clothing, jewelry, arts and services and provided access to all things Indian. There was also a Kids Corner hosted by Ace Montessori with activities to make the festival family friendly.